Quiet master-planned living centered around community activities and recreation
Roughly 60 miles southeast of Phoenix, the master-planned, HOA-governed community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers recreation options and events that attract both retirees and families with young children. "We've got anything you want to do, whether it's crafts, dances, dinners, or pickleball,” says resident Claudia Wilson, an agent with Realty One Group. “It’s very pet friendly and you see people out and about all day long walking their dogs, riding their bikes, driving golf carts,” adds resident Ayanna Hawkins, a Realtor with Simple Realty Professionals. Within this largely residential development, the northern Sun City section welcomes buyers aged 55 and older, the southern Parkside section is open to residents of all ages, and everyone comes together at a shared community center. The CAP Index crime score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4 out of 10. Residents can do some grocery shopping and dining right in the neighborhood, but Hawkins notes that the area's shopping, dining and entertainment options are increasing with the continued development of nearby communities. "We're within striking distance of Queen Creek and San Tan Valley, which are growing exponentially right now,” she says.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is a mater planned community in the Sonoran Desert.
Pickleball is a growing sport among Anthem at Merrill Ranch residents.
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Private recreation amenities at the community center and neighboring park, plus a public golf course
While residents in the age-restricted portion of Anthem at Merrill Ranch have access to their own private pickleball courts, the Anthem Parkside Community Center welcomes everyone who lives in the community. The center offers outdoor tennis, pickleball and volleyball courts, as well as a pool with waterslides and lap-swimming lanes; indoors, residents can shoot hoops in the gym, climb the rock wall, or use the fitness center. The adjoining community park offers a large playground and splash pad, as well as fishing ponds, a dog park and fields for soccer and softball. On the neighborhood’s east side, the 18-hole Poston Butte Golf Course is open to the public; on a clear day, golfers teeing off from the fairway can catch a glimpse of the Temple of the Sun, a landmark built on top of Poston Butte Peak by explorer Charles Poston, known as the “Father of Arizona."
Golf is played year round in Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
Residents of Anthem at Merrill Ranch use the community center fields for many activities.
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All-ages events at the community center
Residents can enjoy a regular roster of special events at the community center, including trivia on the first Friday of each month and a neighborhood potluck on the second. "The HOA does a really good job of making sure we have regular things to do on a daily basis,” Hawkins says, adding that residents frequently look forward to drive-in movies at the park and golf course, or dive-in movies at the pool. "Every week there's something going on at our community center,” she says. “If you’re bored here, there might be something wrong with you.”
The pool at Anthem Parkside Community Center in Anthem at Merrill Ranch has fun of all.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is a proud Dell Webb community.
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Cohesive post-2000 builds
Home construction in Anthem at Merrill Ranch began in the early 2000s, but buyers can also find brand-new homes in both the Sun City and Parkside sections. All homes on the Sun City side are single-level ranch-style homes, while Parkside has two-story builds. Modest homes start at around $300,000, while larger versions, often with private swimming pools, can go up to $700,000. Most homes here have neutral-colored stucco walls and clay barrel-tile roofs, but some have brick-accented facades; nearly all homes here sit on quiet, sidewalk-lined streets and have attached, front-facing garages. Properties are well-maintained, and most feature low-water landscaping with gravel and desert plants.
Many residents that choose grass, opt for artificial turf in Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
Curb appeal doesn’t get much better than the homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
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Career courses at Florence High School
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is zoned for the Florence Unified School District. Local students can attend Anthem K-8 on the neighborhood’s south side before moving onto Florence High 10 miles southeast; both receive a C-plus rating from Niche. Florence High has a renowned music and fine arts program with several band and choir ensembles, and students here can enroll in a variety of career and technical education courses in fields like graphic design, agriscience and sports medicine.
Anthem K-8 in Anthem at Merrill Ranch offers an after school program for its students.
Florence High School was founded in 1916.
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Grocery shopping and several restaurants within the community
Residents can do some local dining and shopping on the neighborhood’s west side, at the intersection of Hunt Highway and Merrill Ranch Parkway. There's a Safeway for groceries, Valentino’s Eatery for classic Italian fare and lengthy wine, cocktail and dessert menus, and Chen’s Chinese Bistro for family-style dinners and takeout lunch specials. Further east at Poston Butte Golf Club’s Anthem Grille, folks can order smoked meat by the half pound or enjoy Sunday brunch on the patio. Retail options can be found less than 20 miles northwest in the Queen Creek community, including Target, Walmart and Kohl’s.
Residents of Anthem at Merrill Ranch pick up groceries at Safeway.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch residents enjoy lunch at Anthem Grille.
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Access to major routes via Hunt Highway
While residents don’t have direct freeway access in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Hunt Highway is a main thoroughfare for the area and wraps around the community to the south and the west, eventually connecting with Loop 202 to the north and State Route 87 to the south, which leads west to Interstate 10.
Residents don’t need to travel far for emergency and specialized medical care, as Florence Hospital can be found right within the community to the northeast. For air travel, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is roughly 25 miles northwest.
Florence Hospital in Anthem at Merrill Ranch is equipped with a helipad for emergencies.
Anthem at Merrill Ranch is 30 minutes away from Phoenix - Mesa Gateway Airport.
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Written By
Lauren Schott
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Nelson
Video By
Luke Basinger
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Agents Specializing in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, AZ
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Anthem at Merrill Ranch
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Anthem at Merrill Ranch Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Florence sell after 90 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Florence over the last 12 months is $370,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
CORNER LOT Kingston floorplan. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 2,051 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space in the highly sought-after Anthem at Merrill Ranch community.This beautifully crafted split floor plan offers maximum privacy with a secluded primary suite while the spacious open-concept design is perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The true centerpiece of the
Welcome to the Caden floor plan, offering 1,612 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an open-concept layout ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The beautifully appointed kitchen features stunning granite countertops, crisp white cabinetry, modern appliances, generous prep space, and a large island overlooking the dining area and spacious
55+ age restricted Explore 4387 N Presidio Dr, a residence arranged for everyday practicality with a thoughtfully designed kitchen and comfortable primary suite. The kitchen includes a central island, an accent backsplash, and all stainless steel appliances for a cohesive cooking area. The primary bathroom contains double sinks, complementing the primary bedroom's spacious walk in closet.
Looking for a lower monthly payment? This home offers a rare opportunity to assume the seller's existing VA loan at just 5.75%, or ask about a lender-paid temporary interest rate buydown! (Subject to lender approval and eligibility).Skip the projects and step into a home that's already done for you! Located in the sought-after community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch, this 4 bedroom home with a
Welcome to the Kingston floor plan, a single-story home featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage with direct access to the interior of the home. Spanning 2,051 sq. ft., this home is designed to provide a perfect atmosphere for all lifestyles.The entryway of the home leads you into three bedrooms that are ideal for houseguests. Located near these rooms is a full bathroom that is
The Refuge home design is built for indoor and outdoor entertaining, with a size ideal for empty nesters looking to downsize. Invite your guest over for breakfast with shining sun coming in from the optional cafe bay window. Don’t forget about the welcoming second bedroom with a private bathroom that will impress any overnight guests.
The 2-bedroom Endeavor balances comfort and modern elegance. This thoughtfully-designed home features an elegant dining room, den, and chef’s kitchen overlooking the expansive gathering room, so you can entertain in style. Sliding glass doors in the gathering room showcase the desert views and open up the home to even more light and air. The Owner’s Suite is the ultimate retreat, featuring a
Welcome to the Caden floor plan, a one-story home featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. Spanning 1,612 sq. ft., this home is designed for those seeking a comfortable, functional, and modern living space.As you enter, you're greeted by the foyer that passes two bedrooms. These spaces have a variety of uses, such as a guest room or home office. The shared bathroom between
Welcome to the Caden floorplan. This cozy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a warm and inviting feel in 1612 square feet. Step into the open kitchen in the center of the home that is well-appointed with stunning white cabinets, modern appliances and overlooks the great room and dining room. The primary suite features its own private bathroom and oversized walk-in closet, while the other two
Welcome to the Cali floor plan, a single-story home featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a 2-car garage, and 1,823 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space.The entry hallway leads past three secondary bedrooms and a shared bathroom before opening into the spacious great room. Filled with natural light, this inviting space flows seamlessly into the kitchen, making it ideal for relaxing and
Welcome to the Blackstone floor plan, a single-story home featuring 4 bedrooms, a designated study, 3 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage with direct access to the interior. Spanning 2,242 sq. ft., the space is designed to accommodate the needs of all residents. The foyer of the house leads you into the study, a space perfect for work or relaxation. Past the study lies the corner kitchen, featuring
The Butte is a stunning single story home design featuring an inviting kitchen that opens to the gathering room and cafe, perfect for everyday living. Enjoy a casual evening dinner outside on the covered patio or host a more formal gathering in the dining room. An option for an enclosed den is ideal for a home office or a quiet study space.
The Lark features a social living area, tucked away primary suite and teen room. Plus, every home comes with a washer, dryer, fridge and whole home blinds.
The Hideaway is thoughtfully designed for those who enjoy entertaining friends and family. The open gathering room, flow-through kitchen and cafe create an ideal space for hosting--from a casual night with friends to an elegant holiday dinner. A welcoming secondary bedroom allows ample space for visitors and will impress any overnight guests.
Entertain guests in the extensive great room, dining room and kitchen, or invite friends for cocktails on the roomy outdoor patio. Plus, every home comes with a washer, dryer, fridge and whole home blinds.
Be the first to live in this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home featuring an open-concept floor plan with a bonus room, spacious great room, and modern kitchen with white shaker cabinets, granite countertops, and stylish finishes. The home also includes a washer, dryer, refrigerator, blinds, and pendant lighting.Enjoy resort-style community amenities, including a water park, lap pool, fitness
**Please visit our Stratton Vantage Website for the Virtual Tour!**Welcome to 3759 N. Astoria Drive in the highly desirable Anthem Parkside at Merrill Ranch community! This beautifully maintained home offers the perfect combination of comfort, style, and an incredible resort-style lifestyle in one of Florence's premier master-planned communities.Step inside to discover a bright,
This property is professionally managed by AMH Living, a leading single-family rental company. We expect to make this property available for showings soon. We work to simplify your rental experience by offering self-guided tours and a streamlined leasing process you can complete all online, all on your own schedule. Once moved in, we provide maintenance support that you can rely on, so you can
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Pre-lease this home now with Tricon Pre-Lease Guarantee. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,866 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living,
BEAUTIFUL, FULLY furnished home w/ AMAZING amenities incl. resident rate golf fees on award winning 18 hole course! Spacious, non-smoking home on lovely corner lot! 2 bdrms + office, 2 full baths & 2 car garage. Home fully equipped! Includes all utilities & wifi for short term rentals + smart TV's! NEW furniture inside & out. Large front & back patio w/ sunshades, grill, cozy fire-pit. Master has
Experience the ultimate seasonal Arizona lifestyle in this gorgeous 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom premium rental complete with a versatile den. Perfect for a home office. This home seamlessly blends open-concept indoor living with an extraordinary backyard paradise. Beautifully landscaped backyard features extended paver patios, and relaxing spa designed for effortless entertaining or peaceful
Beautiful home located in the resort style community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Spacious, open concept with huge island kitchen, extended kitchen cabinets, and granite countertops . Furnished home perfect for those who need a short term rental. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, plus a Den. Oversized ceramic tile floors, and carpet in the bedrooms. Enjoy the community ammentities, water park, lap pool, indoor
This home is immaculate, fully furnished truly a showcase of pride in ownership and ready for you and your suitcase!This property shows like a model home, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2056 Sq ft. homeThe kitchen is a chef’s dream, offering a gas stove, stainless steel appliances, and abundant counter space. The enormous master suite includes an oversized shower, and a huge walk-in
Looking to get away for the winter, but haven't found the right home? Look no further! This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom home in Sun City Anthem is the perfect get away! Located in Florence, AZ a popular destination for winter visitors! Sun City Anthem is an active 55+ Community, featuring an 18-hole Golf Course, Pools, Spa & many other activities that will keep you busy all winter long while enjoying
Stunning 2 bed, 2 bath + den in the 55+ community of Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch! This partially furnished home is available for LONG-TERM OCCUPANCY ONLY. The split floor plan features a guest bedroom and full bath up front, plus a bright den overlooking a charming paved courtyard. The kitchen offers quartz countertops, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. Enjoy
AVAILABLE MAY through DECEMBER 2026. Fully furnished vacation, short-term, or corporate rental with all utilities and high-speed internet INCLUDED. MINIMUM 30-DAY rental term. 3 Queen Beds plus a pull-out couch (sleeps 1). Access to Anthem Merrill Ranch Clubhouse with fitness, pools, and all amenities! Enjoy stunning Sunrises and breathtaking MTN and DESERT VIEWS in Anthem Merrill Ranch, an
Beautiful & highly upgraded 3 bed, 2 bath home in the popular Anthem at Merrill Ranch community! This 1,258 sq ft. home features granite countertops, a gas range, artificial turf in the backyard, a solar system, water softener, and reverse osmosis system. Residents also enjoy access to outstanding community amenities, including a resort-style pool, recreation center, tennis courts, playground,
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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